Samsung has introduced a new budget-friendly smartwatch option for Android users - the Galaxy Watch FE. This Fan Edition device aims to provide many of the premium features found in Samsung's flagship smartwatches at a more affordable price point.
Key Specifications
- 1.2-inch (396x396) AMOLED display with Sapphire Crystal protection
- Exynos W920 processor
- 1.5GB RAM, 16GB storage
- Wear OS 4 operating system
- ~40 hour battery life
- 5ATM water resistance, IP68 dust resistance, MIL-STD-810H durability
- Heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen, and body composition sensors
- Built-in GPS and NFC
Performance and Features
The Galaxy Watch FE essentially repackages the internals of the Galaxy Watch 4 in a slightly refreshed design. It retains the Exynos W920 chip, which still provides snappy performance for Wear OS apps and UI navigation. The 1.5GB of RAM helps keep multiple apps running smoothly.
On the health tracking front, the Watch FE includes Samsung's BioActive sensor for heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen, and body composition measurements. While not the latest sensor tech, it still provides comprehensive health data for fitness enthusiasts.
The 1.2-inch AMOLED display is bright and crisp, now protected by Sapphire Crystal for improved durability. Samsung also added some stylish stitching details to the default watch bands for a more premium look.
Software and Battery Life
Running Wear OS 4, the Galaxy Watch FE has access to Google's app ecosystem along with Samsung's own apps and services. It supports both Google Assistant and Bixby for voice commands.
Battery life is rated for around 40 hours of typical use, which is decent but not exceptional for a modern smartwatch. More intensive use will likely require daily charging.
Price and Value
While exact pricing hasn't been announced, the Galaxy Watch FE is positioned as a budget-friendly option in Samsung's smartwatch lineup. It's expected to retail for less than $200, making it significantly cheaper than the current Galaxy Watch 6 series.
For the price, users get a capable Wear OS watch with a robust set of health sensors, Samsung's refined software experience, and the promise of several years of software updates. However, buyers should be aware they are essentially getting 2-3 year old internals in a new package.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Watch FE looks to be a solid option for Android users wanting a full-featured smartwatch without breaking the bank. While it doesn't push any technological boundaries, it provides a well-rounded experience at an attractive price point. For those who don't need the absolute latest features, the Galaxy Watch FE could be an excellent value proposition in the Android smartwatch market.
